“Chastening and Rebuke” (Answer the Door and Keep your Seat)

In Revelation 3:14-22, Jesus speaks to the saints in Laodicea about their need to repent. They were blind to their spiritual state, believing themselves to be wealthy and self-sufficient. However, Jesus points out their true condition—they were wretched, poor, blind, and exposed. There is a clear contrast between their perception and reality. Jesus advises them to obtain from Him refined gold, white garments, and ointment for their eyes, symbolizing the spiritual remedies they needed. Jesus was knocking at the door of the church at Laodicea; the Laodiceans were responsible for opening the door. Jesus said, “As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent.” Revelation 3:19

If they did not respond to the chastening and rebuke of Jesus the fellowship that He so strongly desired with those whom He invested Himself in, would no longer be an option. The knocking would stop and the seat at His Father’s table would no longer be available. They would remain in their spiritually poor, blind, and naked state.

What happens if I ignore the chastening and rebuke of Jesus?

Society often clings to “judge not lest ye be judged.” Why? Because it excuses accountability—if it feels good, do it. Do not judge me! But there is a greater context to Matthew 7:1, and the Bible says a great deal more about judgment. In fact, the Bible is full of judgment.

Yes, God’s Word comforts and encourages, but it also chastens and rebukes.

Sometimes I need chastening and rebuking, and when it happens, instead of getting angry and throwing out the “judge not” excuse, I need to be zealous and repent. Otherwise, Jesus will eventually stop knocking at my door and my seat at the Father’s table will no longer be available.